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Monthly Archives: April 2016

Years ago when I started this blog it was because I loved to be around entrepreneurs and business owners. It meant to talk with them, interview them and be in that environment. I was just motivated by not only talking to entrepreneurs but telling their unique stories. The stories were the foundation for Hearpreneur–the first CEO Blog Nation Blog before the idea of CEO Blog Nation was conceived. As lonely as the entrepreneurial road can be, I felt at home and found peace in being around people that I felt were just like me.

While different, there’s something unique about being around entrepreneurs that can’t help but motivate you. I sat in a Starbucks at Howard University with one of my college classmates yesterday and his eyes lit up as he spoke about the possibilities that he saw for his business. He said he was beginning to see the endless opportunities as he made his entrepreneurial journey. He saw that while he was thinking of making a big investment, some people would say that’s “risky” and ask “what if it fails” but that’s what truly fuels the entrepreneur. That’s what makes Facebook, Tesla, Starbucks, Harpo Productions or the iPhone possible. Yes, it’s a risk but just like a running back when you see a hole, you’re supposed to hit it–fast.

This is why we are making a pivot.

Some of you know, in addition to running and managing CEO Blog Nation, I also manage a digital marketing company called Blue 16 Media. For the longest, I’ve kept the two separate other than providing hosting and server space for the website which you can see in the footer. Other than that the two have essentially been separate entities.

That’s changing. One of the realizations is how difficult it is to run a journalistic startup (i.e. Patch–where I’ve worked as a freelance writer and local advertising rep). It’s not impossible but because of the overhead it becomes more and more difficult to justify certain costs. That’s where Blue 16 Media comes in.

It’s been difficult to separate the two in terms of resources but also energy. I’m reminded of the saying “he who chases two rabbits catches none.” I’ve come to a point where the decision to keep the two separate might ultimately result in the demise of both companies. It’s a painful but realistic situation that may occur. So, after some reflection and prayer. I’ve decided that in order to maintain both they must be combined. It may not be the only way but it’s probably the smartest way. When making this decision, I’m reminded of a quote I heard just a few days ago—work smart and not hard.

I put this quote on my phone as a wallpaper and now as I look down at it I realize that this is the smartest next step.

Some might ask what does this mean for CEO Blog Nation and CEO Media Firm. Is it dead? Will it start to decline? The short answer is No. It won’t.

Actually, I believe it will be more alive then it ever has been. The focus, aim and mission has not and will not change. The only difference is there is now a “sponsor” that will ensure that it not only stays alive but thrives. You will see posts that include the category Blue 16 Media. In being transparent, we will tag posts that are influenced by Blue 16 Media but other than the tag, it will be the same great content we’ve always published and produced.

You will also notice advertising spots that offer a free website or digital marketing consultation. In other words, you might see the company but it won’t be anything out of the ordinary than what you would see from our regular advertisements.

Finally, you might see future changes in our branding but that’s simply to show the merging of the two companies. So, stay on the lookout for it.

Change and pivots are always difficult but when you take a step back and remember the overall mission. It makes it easier and more palatable to make these decisions.

These bootstrapping tips are from Danielle Tate, CEO of MissNowMrs.com and the author of the Elegant Entrepreneur:

Focus on why you are bootstrapping. You will remain in control of your vision and all the decisions concerning how you grow and where you go. The important thing is to identify the steps necessary to go from idea to income, and then take those steps methodically.

Be creative about your beginnings. You do not necessarily need office space or a fancy desk. Think about where Mattel, Apple, and HP began. . .all in a garage.

Barter. As an entrepreneur, don’t be afraid to trade or barter for the things you need to succeed. Swap marketing advice for coding or a vacation home stay for graphic design work. You have to be scrappy and humble to self-fund a venture

Hi, my name is Gresham (Gresh) and this is a business blog that I manage with a phenomenal team. I am the Blogger in Chief for CBNation and a media consultant for Blue 16 Media. Helping out business owners with website design and digital marketing. I hope you enjoy this blog. Contact me to set up a time to speak or let's meet for coffee (even though I rarely drink it). You can schedule a time on my calendar HERE. Find me on social media @progreshion.